Page 112 of Tempt

“Come to the game tomorrow. I’ll get you killer seats, and we can hang out after.”

“Deal.”

33

DANIEL

“Professor. We’ve reviewed your tenure package.” The head of the committee looks at me across the polished table in the dean’s meeting room.

Since arriving at Russell U, I did everything right.

Threw myself into learning how to be the best teacher and researcher I could be. I never missed a deadline.

Never even questioned why I wanted to do this except to provide for my kid.

The stuffed rabbit Andy gave me for good luck is stashed in my briefcase. He made me promise to take it for my important day.

“Your record has been exemplary. Your application was successful. Congratulations, Professor.”

It’s done.

I’m in.

Respect, prestige, and nearly unlimited freedom are all mine.

I’ve pushed the rock uphill when so many other aspiring faculty have failed.

“As you know, this comes with a significant pay raise. You’ll be eligible for an office in the old wing of the building. And, of course, have your pick of classes to teach.”

“The office I have is fine. So are the classes.”

“Oh. Well, then. The package you submitted was quite compelling…”

He pulls out the stack of papers, and I think of the colored file folders I gave Kat.

This is what I worked for. Everything I wanted.

Now that I have it, I should be happy.

Why am I not happy?

“Daniel?”

“Yes.” I force a smile.

“This is the biggest win of your career. But, it goes both ways. We appreciate your work to date and tremendous potential. Russell U is extremely lucky to have you.”

“Thank you. I look forward to many years of productive work together.”

“Good.” He nods. “And, I apologize for the change in timing. My wife and I…we’re going through a divorce. My daughter wanted to see both of us for the holidays, and my wife can only take her certain days. So this way, we can both see her. I suppose the one thing we have in common is that we both want the best for her.”

He sniffs, blinking down at the table.

“Anyway. It’s customary we’d get a beer at the faculty club—”

“I appreciate the invitation, but I’m afraid there’s somewhere else I need to be.” I shake his hand before I grab my briefcase and shift out of my seat. “Let’s have that beer another time.”

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